Rock Candy

2008 Rewind: B for Boondogs

Boondogs. Now that Ho-Hum’s on indefinite hiatus, Little Rock’s favorite pop melancholics appear to be the scene’s longest-tenured active band. They show no signs of slowing, either. A year and a half after the ’dogs released “A Thousand Ships,” they returned with a new one in November. “Take Shelter” continues along a similar path as previous records: Lead singers and songwriters and husband and wife Indy Grotto and Jason Weinheimer frame lyrics as if they're having a conversation, and one that often dips into dark territory. Lush pop leavens the mood. It’s a timeless formula, but give credit to the Boondogs for branching out. Sonically, Weinheimer, who led the production, suns up the rhythm section, and not content to do the typical Little Rock promotional shuffle, he and Grotto hooked up with wunderkind New Orleans director Benjamin Reece to make a music video for their song “Heaven.” It’s a gorgeous and naturalistic romp through the Crescent City, starring the couple’s two small children. It’s easily the best music video ever from a local band.